They're only ours for a little while

We humans are prone to chase rainbows,

always wanting that pot of gold.

But the wisest of us remember the joy

of just a small creature to hold.

Allow yourself to accept their great gift,

and know what devotion is worth.

If you've been loved by a dog or cat,

you're the richest person on earth.

But their lives are lived in miniature-

bright sun to palest moon.

They bless our days with innocence,

and faithfulness that's stilled too soon.

These precious lives are fragile,

as fleeting as a baby's smile.

So give them all the love you have.

They're only ours for a little while.

And in the lonely moments

when you pause to wonder why,

hold close those brightest shooting stars

that burn so briefly in our sky.

But then look deeper in your heart

to know all love must intertwine,

and when the night sky seems the darkest,

you'll see their light forever shine.

 

(Nancy Hanson, dedicated to the memory of Duke and Sam)

Source